A Letter from the Executive Director

As we reflect on this academic year, our focus remains steadfast: empowering students to achieve success and thrive in their careers. We are dedicated to equipping students not only with the skills to enter the workforce but with the confidence, resilience, and clarity to navigate their professional journeys with purpose.

Career readiness is at the heart of our mission. We provide students with the guidance, tools, and experiences they need to explore opportunities, set meaningful goals, and approach their futures with curiosity and determination. Whether through one-on-one coaching, mentorship programs, or skill-building workshops, our team works tirelessly to ensure that each student feels prepared to take the next step—whether it is landing their first professional role, pursuing graduate education, or launching entrepreneurial ventures.

Our commitment goes beyond preparing students for a job; we help them develop the mindset and competencies to succeed in a rapidly changing world. By fostering adaptability, problem-solving, and self-advocacy, we empower students to overcome obstacles, embrace challenges, and make informed choices about their careers. Each success story reflects not only the talent and drive of our students but the dedication and guidance provided by our team.

This year, we have continued to expand access to experiential learning opportunities, industry partnerships, and career development resources, ensuring that students are well-positioned to turn their aspirations into tangible outcomes. We take pride in walking alongside them every step of the way—celebrating milestones, providing encouragement, and holding space for reflection and growth.

As you explore this annual report, we hope you gain insight into the meaningful work being done to support student success and career readiness. Our team is honored to serve as partners in our students’ journeys, helping them find direction, seize opportunities, and build fulfilling futures. Their achievements inspire us and reaffirm our commitment to preparing the next generation of professionals to thrive in a dynamic and interconnected world.

With gratitude for your continued support,

Melanie Uken
Executive Director

By the Numbers

 

Unless otherwise noted, all displayed data includes figures from the 2025 Academic Year. 

Job, Co-op, and Internship Fairs

 
student at a job fair

Career Advising

...The support I have received from Kennesaw State has been absolutely unmatched. From academic faculty to career advisors, each member has offered me such genuine support and guidance regarding my goals.

Graham Stewart

GLIP Intern - Georgia General Assembly House of Representatives

All the advisors at the Career office in Marietta really understood my goals and gave me a game plan to achieve it.

Zahira Rivera-Villanueva

Kimley-Horn Intern - Civil Engineering 
appointment

 

Employer Recruiting

KSU has given me all the tools and opportunities necessary to become a professional and learn to be successful.

Joey Van Sickle

Cox Communications - Marketing Strategy Intern

The Department of Career Planning and Development enhanced my collaboration and public speaking abilities, as well as deepened my understanding of career readiness.

Arielle Charles

Vanderlande - Mechatronics Intern

a delta recruiter talking with a student